stem cell

American  

noun

Cell Biology.

1. a cell that upon division replaces its own numbers and also gives rise to cells that differentiate further into one or more specialized types, as various B cells and T cells.

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stem cell British  

noun

1. histology an undifferentiated cell that gives rise to specialized cells, such as blood cells

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stem cell Scientific  

1. An unspecialized cell found in fetuses, embryos, and some adult body tissues that has the potential to develop into specialized cells or divide into other stem cells. Stem cells from fetuses or embryos can develop into any type of differentiated cells, while those found in mature tissues develop only into specific cells. Stem cells can potentially be used to replace tissue damaged or destroyed by disease or injury, but the use of embryonic stem cells for this purpose is controversial.

2. Also called progenitor cell

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stem cell Cultural  

1. A cell from which a variety of other cells can develop through the process of cellular differentiation. Stem cells can produce only a certain group of cells (as with skin stem cells) or any cell in the body (as with embryonic stem cells).

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A major controversy involves the question of whether nonembryonic stem cells should be used for medical purposes.

Etymology

Origin of stem cell

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

These stem cells were then used to grow three-dimensional brain organoids that mimic early stages of human brain formation.

From Science Daily

The researchers expressed their thanks to Anthony Nolan and to the volunteer blood and stem cell donors, as well as the patients and families who chose to take part in this work.

From Science Daily

The project reflects a scientific collaboration that has expanded over many years, involving genetics, structural biology, stem cell research, and neuroscience, with contributions from several dozen researchers at institutions around the world.

From Science Daily

These cells share some qualities with stem cells but are more specialized.

From Science Daily

The work shows that this constant growth is powered by a ring of neural stem cells that resembles similar structures found in vertebrate eyes.

From Science Daily